Safety & Emergencies

Emergency numbers (memorize these three)

• 110 — police. 120 — ambulance. 119 — fire.
• Operators speak Chinese; a translation app on speaker works. In major cities, 110 has English-support pilots — try English slowly, then switch to the app.
• Foreign visitors in trouble should also contact their own embassy or consulate in China. (China's 12308 hotline is for Chinese citizens abroad — not for you.)

The realistic risk picture

• Violent crime against tourists is rare; solo night walking in major cities is normal and safe by global standards — visitors consistently remark on it.
• Actual risks are mundane: pickpocketing in crowded markets and rail stations, taxi overcharging (use Didi), and scams targeting foreigners.

Scam patterns to know

• Over-friendly strangers: a "local friend" or "travel buddy" from an app offering free airport pickup or a tea ceremony that ends in an inflated bill — politely decline unsolicited guidance to private venues.
• Closed attractions: a friendly passer-by says the temple/museum is closed and offers a cheaper alternative — verify at the official entrance yourself.
• QR-code tricks: only scan codes from staff or printed menus, not from people pushing you toward "free gifts."
• Never hand your passport to someone who offers to "register" you anywhere except a hotel desk or police station.

Everyday safety habits

• Security checks (bag X-ray) at metros, rail stations and big attractions are routine — cooperate, they are fast.
• Carry a card or phone note with your hotel's name and address in Chinese.
• Real-name rules mean ID/passport checks at stations; keep documents reachable, not in checked luggage.